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 A photo of Olaniyi Akindiya standing in their studio smiling. Behind him is an artwork in progress using recycled cardboard boxes. A graphic on it reads, "Olaniyi Akindiya: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by incorporating vintage and repurposed materials in my works of art.

Meet Olaniyi Rasheed Akindiya, the artist and changemaker known as Akirash and our newest Net-Zero Hero! Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Olaniyi’s work has been…

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A photo of Rohan Lilauwala at Mendez Neighborhood Park.

Please join us in welcoming the newest team member to the Office of Sustainability: Rohan Lilauwala! Rohan is stepping into the role of Environmental Program Coordinator. He'll be focusing on supporting climate resilience and advancing Austin's Climate Equity Plan. As Rohan settles into his new role, we asked him som…

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A photo of Diane Grodek standing outside smiling. Behind her, students at Lively Middle School are enjoying their lunch break. A graphic on it reads, "Diane Grodek: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin net-zero by: making sure AISD Food Service considers sustainability with each decision we make — from cafeterias to procurement, recipes to menus, and catering to concessions.

Meet Diane Grodek, our newest Net-Zero Hero! As Executive Chef with the Austi…

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Image of a present wrapped with a brown paper bag. Text reads, "How to Have a Green Holiday Season".

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, Americans increase their landfill-bound waste by about 25%. Being mindful about managing your household’s waste this holiday season is one of the greatest gifts you can give to the Earth and ultimately to our families and our future.

Here are a few easy tips on how to have a greener holiday...

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A banner image of the Austin skyline with the COP26 logo and text that reads, "UN Climate Change Conference UK 2021: Austinites Reflect."

 

Through November 12, leaders from around the world are gathered in Glasgow, Scotland for the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties, known as COP26. Throughout these weeks, the global community turns our eyes towards the commitments coming out of Glasgow as countries work together to accelerate climate action.

COP26 created goals focused on four key areas:

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A photo of Sheridan Ray standing under a tree. A graphic on it reads, "Sheridan Ray: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by contributing to my community and raising people's voices to make an impact.

Meet Sheridan Ray, our newest Net-Zero Hero! At only 19, Sheridan is becoming a fixture in sustainability circles across Austin. Inspired by a high school practicum course with Austin’s Park Rangers, Sheridan has sought out opportunities to raise her voice — and those from her community — to support Austin…

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Photograph of small business storefronts with a graphic that reads, "Austin Climate Leaders."

Solving climate change requires both individual and collective action. In creating the Austin Climate Equity Plan, we were reminded of the barriers to action many community members face, and the critical role institutions can play in leading by example. Businesses and organizations across our region can have a big impact when it comes to addressing the climate crisis.

With this in mind, we are please…

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Illustration showing people dancing with their hands in the air. Fruits and vegetables icons are around them.

For Austin to be a thriving, equitable, and ecologically resilient community, we must have a system for growing, selling, and consuming food that works for everyone. To work toward this vision, the Office of Sustainability launched a new Food Justice Mini Grant program. The program sought to provide flexible funding of up to $3,000 to organizations supporting those in our community most negatively impacted by food-related injustice.

The 20 organizat…

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Photograph of Aimee Aubin standing next to trees and red flowers.

We’re pleased to introduce you to Aimee Aubin, a new Public Information Specialist Sr. in our office. Aimee will be working on design and community storytelling.

We asked Aimee a few get-to-know-you questions so you can learn more about her and her background.

 

Q: Where are you from and what do you like best about your hometown?

A: I’m from Bay Shore, New York, which is on the south shore of Long Island. It was a great place to grow up. I always felt connected to nature an…

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Field at Q2 Stadium

 

Hey, sports fans! Austin’s new professional soccer team, Austin FC, will play their first home game at Q2 Stadium on Saturday, June 19.  So, what does this have to do with going green? Aside from the team’s primary color and its rallying cry “Verde! Listos!” the sustainability features in the stadium are first-rate.

Located near The Domain, Q2 Stadium was built with fan comfort and the…